West Virginia enters the second half of the season searching for answers on defense as the Mountaineers prepare to host Cincinnati in Big 12 play.

Defensive coordinator Zac Alley says competition is open across the defense after WVU’s recent struggles.
“It’s an open job,” Alley said, making it clear that no starting position is guaranteed as the coaching staff evaluates personnel and looks to get its most athletic combination on the field.

The emphasis goes beyond personnel. WVU is challenging its defense to play every snap to the same standard, regardless of the score or circumstances, after the coaching staff saw too many lapses in effort during the loss to Arizona.

Cincinnati presents another difficult test. The Bearcats enter Morgantown 4-1 and are coming off an open week, giving them additional time to study a WVU defense that has struggled through the opening weeks of Big 12 play. Alley expects Cincinnati to test whether the Mountaineers have corrected those issues and potentially introduce new wrinkles after the extra preparation time.

The Bearcats feature an athletic quarterback in JC French IV, a physical rushing attack and size up front. For West Virginia, the priority starts with stopping the run and eliminating the explosive plays that have plagued the defense.

WVU enters the matchup 3-3 overall and 0-3 in Big 12 play, looking to end a three-game losing streak and earn its first conference victory of the season.